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LONDON, Jan 24 (Reuters) – The London-based Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy (BIRD) on Tuesday urged Formula One’s governing body to allow seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and other drivers to discuss “politics”. Questions are free to speak.
The ruling FIA updated its International Sports Law in December, adding a clause requiring drivers to obtain prior written permission to make or display “political, religious and personal statements or comments”. read more
Mercedes’ Hamilton, the most successful driver in the history of the sport, has used his profile and platform to address human rights abuses and racial inequality around the world.
“The move appears to be a reaction to drivers, especially Lewis Hamilton, who have raised concerns about F1’s venues, including the host country’s human rights record, and engaged in a forceful campaign at a time when your own organization has been silent. Intervention,” BIRD director Sayed Alwadaei wrote in a letter to FIA president Mohammad bin Sulayem on Tuesday.
The season starts in Bahrain on March 5 after pre-season testing.
There are four games in the Middle East this year – Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
The FIA ​​said the update was only in line with the “political neutrality of sport”, but Alwadaei said it appeared to be aimed at Hamilton.
“We say to Mohammad bin Sulayem that this policy is wrong and must be withdrawn immediately,” he added.
Hamilton’s Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recently told reporters the rule change might not end up being a big deal.
“We need to see how it turns out,” the Austrian said.
“I have no doubt that Mohamed and the FIA ​​are intent on getting the right thing done, it’s just about being in line with more outspoken drivers in the past.
“I know when Muhammad spoke to Lewis … that ended in a positive conversation. I have no doubt that once people sit together, things won’t be as harsh as they were when they were written off the record. Season.”
Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Toby Davis
Our standards: Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.
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